USA Network Won't Move Forward With 'Political Animals'

The "limited series event" from Greg Berlanti and Laurence Mark was ordered straight to series with the door left open for a potential additional order -- following the same model the cable network did with miniseries The Starter Wife and The 4400.

"We are proud of Political Animals, our miniseries that attracted critical acclaim and impacted the cultural conversation this summer," USA said in a statement. "It was a pleasure to work with Greg Berlanti and Laurence Mark and a powerful cast led by Sigourney Weaver. We look forward to collaborating again with these immensely talented creatives."

Its future beyond its planned six-episode run seemed murky since it bowed in mid-July to 2.6 million viewers, with the finale rebounding to end its run with 2.3 million, bringing the series to an average viewership of 2.12 million.

The series, which attracted a top-tier cast includingWeaver, Carla Gugino and Ellen Burstyn was considered a big swing for the network, which had Political Animals on the air six months after it ordered the drama about a former first lady to series.

Berlanti, for his part, told THR in July that he was "desperate to do more" of the series, with the actors contracted to continue on should the limited run prove successful.

The series was considered part of USA's play for prestige and gain awards season buzz; whether or not it registers on the TV Academy's radar will be determined next year.

The move comes after the cabler opted not to move forward with Fairly Legal and Common Law.